3/29/17 – Update on Religious Garb Bill (SB1697)

Last week, CIOGC helped lead the effort towards the uncontested passing of Senate Bill 1697 (SB1697) by the Illinois General Assembly Labor Committee. SB1697, otherwise known as the Religious Garb Bill, “provides that it is a violation for an employer to impose any term condition that requires a person to violate his or her religion including the wearing of any attire, clothing, or facial hair in accordance with the requirements of his or her religion.”

The passing of this bill means that employees can fulfill their religious obligations, while no longer compromising their appearance to obtain or retain employment.

The bill has been placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading as of March 16, 2017. Community members can keep track of the bill at the Illinois General Assembly website www.ilga.gov by searching for SB1697.